new house tour | the kitchen

by | Jul 31, 2017 | Kitchen, My House | 173 comments

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I must confess that as I looked at this big, empty house, I felt a little intimidated by it.  When we bought our PA home, there was a lot of obvious work that needed to be done.  This house, though?  It’s beautiful.  Would my chippy, crusty antiques look like junk?  Would my ironstone look completely out of place?

The moment of truth came Saturday morning when an army of people from our church showed up to help unload our truck.  Before we talk about the kitchen and how my stuff looks in the house, I have to give public kudos to all of the people who showered love on us on moving day.  The 28′ truck, that was packed floor to ceiling, was completely empty in 45 minutes.  And once the truck was empty, many people stayed to help with everything from putting together beds to removing shrink-wrap from furniture, assembling shelves, and unpacking boxes.  A team of guys even hooked up my washer and dryer, down to making sure the doors opened in the most convenient direction.

It was an awesome display of service that I will never forget.

Once everyone left, I walked around and took in each room.  I could feel the ideas and excitement bubbling up.  I could see it.  It might take some figuring out to get it all just right, but my style is going to work in this house.  I think I knew in my gut that it would, from the moment I looked at the pictures in the listing, but I was second-guessing myself!

Most of the help I’ve had over the past week has been focused on the kitchen.  Since that room is the furthest along, I thought we would start the tour of my new house there.

Now, my last kitchen was pretty great.  It was probably the best part of the house and it was going to be tough to beat.  I don’t know if this one beats it yet, but I’m optimistic that it might!

It’s a U-shaped kitchen with a large island.  Nice maple cabinets, granite counters, and maple floors provide the bones of the space.

When I first looked at pictures of this house, I noticed right away that one thing couldn’t be checked off my “must” list for a house…a gas stove.  I know for some people, the kind of stove wouldn’t matter, but I like to cook and it’s a big deal for me.  My fellow gas-range-lovers will agree.  Can I get a witness?

Here’s the thing.  I am not good at cooking on electric.

Exhibit A…

Beyond all rational explanation, the bacon is simultaneously burnt and raw.

I showed the evidence to Jeff this morning and he pointed out that I was probably not paying attention.  Okay, I wasn’t fully attending to the bacon, which isn’t completely uncommon for me, but if that was the only factor, it would’ve been just burnt.  This was uneven cooking at its finest.  It was the stove.  Not my multi-tasking.

He wasn’t convinced.

But it doesn’t matter, because we made a pact when we decided to pursue this house – we would run a gas line and buy a gas range.  I’ll keep you posted on when and how that will happen.

The other changes I want to make are cosmetic.  As I’ve thought through the projects, I’ve decided to go with a splurge and save plan.  There are a couple of things I want to splurge on, like a beefy gas range and marble counters, and some things I want to save on, like painting the cabinets and installing a tile backsplash myself.  I’ll also forego the popular apron-front sink in favor of a less expensive white drop-in or under-mount sink (that won’t involve modifying the existing cabinet or purchasing a new one).

 It might surprise some that I want to replace the counters.  These are lovely granite counters, after all.  I sort of wish they were really ugly and old, so ripping them out wouldn’t just be about wanting what I want.  It is just about wanting what I want, though.  And I have wanted marble for as long as I can remember.

We’re also going to switch out the modern pendants for recessed lights, so I can hang my pot rack over the island.  I wasn’t sure if I was going to hang the pot rack, but I love the texture and warmth it brings to a kitchen.  It might not work, but we’re going to give it a try.  I do have a plan B if it doesn’t.

In addition to the good bones and great light, I love how this kitchen looks great from many different angles!  It’s a very photogenic space!

There is a little alcove between the laundry room and hall to the dining room and I think it’s a great place for some open shelving.  I can just picture stacks of ironstone…

And our “double stool” fits in the recess perfectly, so we’ll keep a place for it under the shelves.

There isn’t enough space under the cabinets for my Kitchen Aid mixer, so I put it in the shelves at the end of the island.  It’s out of the way, but visible and accessible.

Yeah, I didn’t vacuum before I took this picture.  I figure you’ve already seen the dirty toilets (and my bare hand in them), so what are a few crumbs and dust bunnies between friends?

Most of the copper will hang on the pot rack once it’s installed, but I’ll probably keep a few pieces here.

While this kitchen doesn’t feel as big as my last kitchen, it is well thought out and has some upgrades that I love, like a trash drawer, large pantry, and these storage drawers next to the stove…

I already had the bamboo organizers from Ikea and they fit perfectly!

Everything is sort of thrown in there at the moment, but that’s how it is when you move.  At least they are in a drawer.

One early struggle was figuring out where to put the microwave.  When we were in a tiny townhouse, we lived without a microwave for two years, because I refused to give up counter space for one.

There is a lot of work surface on the island, but not a lot of space for countertop appliances.  The microwave was taking up too much real estate for my taste.

So, we came up with a solution to put it in the pantry.  I’ll show you how we did it in another post.

In addition to moving the microwave, we have done a few other things in the kitchen already.  We had to replace the refrigerator right away.  It had a large crack in the freezer and the ice maker and water dispenser weren’t functioning.  I had never had the need or occasion to pick out my own appliances before, so that was fun!  I went with Kitchen Aid and I’ll share more about it in another post as well.

It’s so sleek and pretty!

And, a small thing, I replaced all of the fluorescent bulbs, which cast an unnatural orange light, with daylight incandescent bulbs.  It’s amazing what changing out lightbulbs can do!

So, there is the kitchen!  I can’t wait to see my vision come together and share the process with you.

And, lest you think I am unpacked already, let me take a few steps back…

There is still a lot more to be done, but we’re making progress!

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    173 Comments

    1. Sarah

      Before you invest in a gas line, I think you should give an induction range a try. I regret putting in gas in our renovation a few years ago now that I know about induction.

      • Cindy

        Agree! About induction. My daughter loves hers and she came from gas

        • Taria

          I use the range like yours when I am at my dad’s house. I really would give it a try before letting it go. You can get use to it. I have a couple of fancy cook guy relatives and they both use these. I keep my big kitchen aid mixer on the counter. Too heavy to lift. Something that we splurged on was a drawer microwave. It is awesome. I did have to pass on the farm sink that I wanted too. I am sorry now but it was the choice I had to make at the time, Your kitchen really is beautiful. You are going to have so much fun making it yours. Can’t wait to see it unfold to your style.

      • Francie Aylward

        I know Induction ranges aren’t like the glass top ranges of yesterday. I know that they are efficient. But, I swear by gas stoves. I would never switch. I used to argue that my Le Creuset couldn’t be used on glass tops–well that isn’t true on induction like it was on the traditional glass top. But, you can’t convince those of us who are gas-top fanatics!

      • Roz

        We put in an induction stove top after we moved into our, new to us, house. Our last home had gas and I loved it, but this house had electric. Running a gas line would have been complicated and I would have lost much need cabinet space. I love my induction stove top. It’s as quick to change temperatures as gas. A real bonus is how easy it is to clean. It’s a smooth glass surface, just wipe and go. No parts to remove and clean around, no burners to scrub, no place for liquids to hide. One big negative for you, is that copper will not work with induction, so I’m guessing you will not even consider going that route. From one Minnesota gal to another, welcome to God’s country.

        .

    2. DeAnna Hansen

      I love the layout of your new kitchen. I can totally see it becoming your style over time. I love your new Kitchen Aid refrigerator too! Congratulations!

    3. Addie

      Here’s a “high five” and a “Amen!” to gas stoves!!! I hear ya! It’s always a must for me too.
      This is an amazing home. All those trimmed arches are very nice. Light and sunny too.
      You mentioned before, that the home was vacant for a while….just waiting for you!!! Enjoy!!!

    4. Anne H.

      A big thank you for continuing to post during what must be a particularly busy time for you and your family. I am sure we will all learn a lot as you work your magic on this lovely new space. I am excited for you! 🙂

      • FIL

        Why did you not get an ice/water dispenser through the door?

        • Marian Parsons

          There is a water dispenser inside of the fridge and the ice maker is in the freezer. We wanted it in the door, but with the counter-depth fridge, it was going to be over $1000 to have the dispenser in the door vs. inside the fridge. We agreed we could just open the door and dispense it and save the $1000! 🙂

          • Jan M Brunette-Hunyady

            I like having inside rather in the door. It’s a cleaner look.

          • Denise P

            We have our water and ice dispensers inside the doors and much prefer it that way.

    5. Michelle

      How exciting.
      I always loved moving and making the house our home. We have been in our current home eleven years now and after reading this post I’m getting the itch to move. Your kitchen is just lovely and can’t wait to see you work your magic.
      We have electric and I’m not a fan but I’ve learned over the years that by preheating the pan and cooking on a low temp what I’m cooking actually turns out and is edible

    6. Barbara

      I prefer gas also, but have been cooking on an electric range for 10 years. Here’s what I’ve learned. Unless you are boiling water, you can cook pretty much everything on medium if you preheat the pan and let it come up to temperature. Otherwise the pan gets overheated and it is hard to adjust it at that point. Also, I cook my bacon in the oven. 😉

      • Kate

        Yes! That’s what I found out. After owning a home for 20 years and using gas, we’re now renting and using electric. It’s been quite an adjustment and I swore a lot at the stove at first, but I think I’m getting the hang of it. I mostly start at medium and adjust up or down from there. The only thing I’ve really needed to turn it higher for is boiling water faster. I’ve given up frying bacon on the stove and broil it in the oven. It’s pretty quick – broiled on “Hi” for 4 minutes – and it’s less messy and cooks more evenly than when I cooked it in a pan on a gas stove top. One advantage to a gas stove is that one can still cook if there is a power outage (if you can bypass the electric lighter), which is something to consider in MN.

      • Chris Moore

        I mostly agree. I cook my bacon in the oven, 400 degrees, abut 15 minutes for thick cut in my electric oven on a sheet pan. Preheated. It’s perfect, no splatter, I use a paper towel yo absorb the fat so nothing goes down the drain, you don’t have to turn the bacon. Easy peasy. I have a gas cook top with granite counters. Love cooking with gas but I have never seen a gas cook top that is easy to clean. My cook top constantly looks dirty. I have a spatter shield etc, but always looks dirty. I am constantly taking the stove apart, washing the areas around the burners etc. I love cooking with gas, but gaze with undiluted envy at clean-and easy to clean-cook tops like yours. I have marble counters in my bathroom, and they stain ferociously. And I live alone, no family members to blame. You may wish to delay the marble until the kids are older.

        Congrats on the new life you have found! Love the house ad the community!

      • Sheri

        Yes, cooking bacon in the oven is the way to go!!…….. turns out perfect! But do keep a eye on it!! 😉

    7. Brenda

      Marian you could probably sell your granite counter tops. I really want a nice gas stove. When my husband and I first married we moved into a small three bedroom house. It had a very nice old gas stove, beautifully maintained. I still miss that house!

    8. Mel

      I’m totally with you on the gas stove. We ditched a glass-top electric range and replaced it with my 1947 Roper propane stove when we moved in to our house. I can’t cook on electric to save my life! Ditto on the granite countertops. Yes, they are beautiful, I only have faux granite laminate, but I”m never convinced they are clean. And also, with the light bulbs. I hate fluorescents! We use daylight-spectrum LEDs almost exclusively in this house.

    9. Carol

      Great kitchen. Try baking your bacon in the oven. Cooks even and less mess.

      • melissa

        I vote bacon in the oven also. It shrinks so much less. Place it on a wire rack that is sitting on a cookie sheet and all the grease will drain onto the cookie sheet. You can do other things while it bakes for about 25 minutes and if you set the timer, teehee, then it is a no brainer.

    10. Betsy Gordon

      Marian,
      What a blessing to have help unloading the moving truck and boxes! That is certainly something I would never forget!
      I think your house will look like you, once you put your touch on it!
      Love the kitchen… Great bones!

      Take your time and enjoy the process, right?

      I was wondering how your parents felt about the big move. Your family is so supportive in your business and life, I’m sure that you will miss them. Hope they plan on visiting as much as they can.

      Betsy
      Betsy

    11. Donna

      Here is your Witness! Gas cook top, always, electric oven, but gas cook top. I was showing my daughter your post, and telling her I bet she paints these cabinets, yes they are a nice wood, but….and has to be marble! This house has good bones, you will make it your own, and I can’t wait to watch it unfold.

    12. Taffy White-Pritulsky

      It looks amazing already! we had gas put in our house several years ago, very easy and makes me a better cook! We also, had our microwave over the stove for years, until I saw while cleaning one day it had “melted” areas from the stove top! it was down the next day! My Husband made a wood “bonnet” and put up subway tile….the little joys of life!

    13. Emily

      You have my same granite counter tops! I 100 percent support your decision to get rid of them. They definitely do the job, but they are dark. I was just dreaming of some lighter ones the other day. It is a lovely kitchen. I am looking forward to seeing the changes you make.

    14. Marsha Kern

      It is coming together and you will make it look like Miss Mustard Seed so soon! I am not a granite person either! And your pot rack will add so much to the kitchen! I have a range just like your s and I cook my bacon in the oven! 425, large cookie sheet, 20 minutes or so, works great!!

    15. Tracey (From KY)

      Looks great and I know you will make it your own style very soon. I cook bacon in the oven on a long cookie sheet on foil. Such an easy cleanup too! 400* for 20 mins

    16. Laura Ingalls Gunn

      Oh I need some bamboo organizers! I will give you the “Amen” on gas cooking. I am still waiting on the gas stove. Necessity is the mother of invention and I have come up with an easy way to cook bacon in your oven. You may never go back to a skillet again. I am not able to give you the direct link to the easy step by step directions, the response says its spam. 🙂 But just google “decor to adore tip for tuesday bacon”

    17. angela

      we only cook our bacon on an electric faberware grill.

    18. Karen L.

      You have great ideas for the kitchen to make it your own style with replacing the dark, flecked granite with classic, lighter marble, and painted cabinets which totally suits your style “era”. It’ll make it so much prettier than the stained maple. (Although I appreciate how clean and modern they look currently—not YOUR style.) And yes, you can totally make someone’s day by selling the granite at a fraction of the cost of retail.

    19. Kate

      I’m amazed that microwaves are still popular. In 30 years of marriage, we’ve never owned one and I’ve never thought “Dang, if only I had a microwave.” (not even for melting butter). They take up way too much space in a kitchen for the few times they are actually used. What are they really good for besides heating up lukewarm coffee or leftovers? To me, microwaves fall in the same category as those things to hang bananas on to ripen them more quickly.

      • Cindy in Oklahoma

        My mom was resistant to a microwave, too. I never understood why. It’s just another tool in the kitchen I’d have a tough time adjusting to if I didn’t have one. We use it almost every day. From baking a potato, to defrosting a bagel before toasting it or heating up chicken nuggets for the grandson to hurrying the queso process to softening butter or cream cheese or melting chips or cheese. It’s a time saver for us…

      • Kim

        Couldn’t agree more since we ditched ours 15 years ago. We were only using it for two things: melting butter and my husband’s oatmeal breakfast, both of which can be done on the stovetop easily. Add to that the fact that they denature the food proteins, take up counter space, and give off radiation, the big heave-ho was a cinch!

    20. Victoria

      Thanks for bringing us along on the move in journey. Totally agree on the gas. Has to be a gas hob and electric oven.
      Maybe you could look at donating the countertops if you’re not going to use them? Shame for them to go to waste.
      I think I’d worry that the pot rack and cupboards not reaching the ceiling would combine to make the ceiling feel lower but that might be counteracted by painting the walls and cabinets a similar colour.
      In my first house I had pans hung from those Ikea kitchen shelves made of bars. If the pot rack doesn’t work you could try hanging the pots in the alcove instead of or as well as some ironstone.

    21. Teresa Ross

      I always make a mess of bacon on my electric stove. Thought it was just me! I’m giving the oven tip a try. Never would have thought of putting bacon in the oven!

      The marble counter tops will look beautiful. You should get Jeff to make you a custom hood over the oven too! That was one of my favorite details about your old kitchen. I’m trying to convince my husband to make me one, it really makes the kitchen cabinetry look custom. I also have maple cabinets very similar to yours which I’m going to paint one of these days. It’s so exciting going through this process with you! Thanks for sharing.

      Teresa

    22. Becky Delson

      I love your kitchen. I know it’s going to be fabulous when you’re finished with it, but I so hope you will reconsider the sink idea. It is definitely more costly and labor intensive to adjust the cabinets to fit an under mount style, but it’s something you will never regret doing. It’s so much easier to clean that area when you can just wipe things right off your marble and into the sink.

    23. Linda

      It’s all coming together slowly but surely! I’m amazed at what you’ve accomplished in a short amount of time. It’s wonderful that your church family came over to help with your moving day too. 🙂

    24. Cindy in Oklahoma

      Years ago when we renovated the home we’d lived in for 15 years or so I just had to have a smooth surface electric stove top. I hated cooking on it but loved how easy it was to clean. Just a little Cerama Bryte and swoosh! Done. I’ve been cooking with gas the past 5 years and I can’t imagine ever going back to electric. Finally! I’m in control of the heat. The clean up? Not so easy.

      Love your new home, Marian… I can definitely see why this house stole your heart…

    25. Joan Larae Thurman

      Lovely. Enjoy the moment(s). ?

    26. Bernie

      I understand wanting gas, but dont give up on electric. Your burnt bacon is probably the result of all the bacon grease puddling on one side of your pan. This could be the result of needing to level your stove (feet are usually adjustable) or warped pans…probably the culprit. Also know that when you turn off an electric burner, it still stays hot…..move the pan off the burner when you are done cooking. Do you want shadows from your pots on your island? Thats what will happen if youput the pot rack under recessed lights. I feel like I ma preaching to the choir here, because you probably already know all this stuff. Marble is not as forgiving as granite….but I’m so sorry we invested over 6k in dark granite counters when I want to change them to light!!

    27. Bernie

      PS a friend just switched out her electric range for gas (what she was used to cooking on) but found her oven temps with her new gas range were uneven! Very frustrating for her.

    28. Marilee

      I know what you mean about cooking with gas. There’s a reason why most chefs prefer it which I won’t go into here, other than to say it’s mostly about being able to control the heat — a comment from my son who is a chef. Where I now live there is no option, electric is what we get, but I think I have found a way around the bacon dilemma. The oven. I preheat to 400, lay the bacon out in a stainless steel pan with high sides and when the oven is ready I pop the bacon in for 12 minutes. If I’m doing a standard sliced bacon that’s probably enough time, but we generally eat thick sliced apple smoked bacon so it takes several minutes more, but I check it at 12 and then start adding a minute or two at the time until desired doneness. If you have a rack to cook the bacon on, I think that’s better, but I’ve also cooked it flat on the pan and just blotted it when I take it out to serve.
      Enjoy your new home, it looks lovely.

    29. Kim

      I grew up cooking on a gas stove and oven, and still to this day despise them! As an adult I have used exclusively electric ovens with electric coil tops and can cook like a master chef on them. What is really awful about electric stoves are the ceramic/glass top kinds. Now THOSE do not work for cooking at all and for cleaning they are a nightmare, plus you cannot use cast iron pans on them, which is what we use for almost everything. Stick with the bare bones coil model (hard to get nowadays, only Lowe’s seems to have them) and everything is easy. It should be mentioned that gas stoves emit toxic fumes into the house (the hood fans do not get rid of them) and are dangerous to people with asthma, but I understand that everyone has their preferences.

      • Mel

        ? I’ve had the glass-top ovens my whole married life (12 years) and we always use cast-iron pans and dutch ovens without any problem. They are annoying in other ways, though! I’d love a gas cooktop someday.

      • Denise P

        Funny how everyone is different. I’ve had glass tops for decades and love them. I find them very easy to clean and I have no problem using my cast iron pans on them.

    30. Kim

      I think that this kitchen actually already looks a lot like your old one……it will be easy to personalize in that fashion!

      I want to point out that you can actually get a really good faux marble countertops (Formica) in the low budget range! We had those put into our brand new home and they were in the basic line, not an upgrade, and they look fantastic! A great option for anyone who wants the easy care of modern materials but the look of the old. All different kinds of edging options too.

      Our Kitchen Aid mixer BARELY fits on the counters under the cupboard when the head is raised, kind of hard to believe in this day and age that is not allotted for. If you use it all the time, like I do, maybe you could have a plug installed on the island when you redo the countertops and use it there.

    31. Darcy Sexson

      What lovely “bones” you have to work with. Thanks for sharing your new home! And ditto to what everyone said on the bacon – the oven really does a nice job. I bake an entire lb, keep in the fridge and then warm in my fry pan before I cook my eggs each morning. You’ll never go back. 🙂

    32. Darcy Sexson

      I should note I have a gas range too, and still use the oven for bacon. 🙂

    33. Cheri Dietzman

      Amen from me on the gas stove! We had a gas line run when we bought our current home. No way could I use an electric range. Really like the placement of the Kitchen-Aid …. I might have to re-think my end cabinet now!

      The pot rack over the island is a great idea! I’ve actually considered doing that for years….annnnd… the marble countertops — Yessss! They are on my wish list too!

    34. Pam James

      …and do something grand with that cheapo hood light over the stove. The End.

    35. Marie Claire

      I’ve had electric stoves my whole life, and I have to agree with your husband about the bacon. Sorry.

    36. Janet Melanson

      I am so enjoying your house tour…thank you for sharing it and the move with all of us.?

    37. Teresa

      Really enjoyed the kitchen tour and although its beautiful as is, I love all your ideas to make it your own. I can testify about gas cooking. I have been cooking on gas for 25 years and could NEVER go back to an electric stove. When is the last time you saw a chef use an electric stove? Its uneven heat and hard to regulate so kudos on switching out stoves and your stainless electric stove looks in great condition so I am sure you could sell that on Craigslist to help offset the cost of buying a gas range. Also, love KitchenAid products which I have in my kitchen.

      I agree with you about switching out the dark granite countertops and I have seen many bloggers upgrade to marble which is no doubt beautiful but harder to maintain (sealing) and stains easier. I would look into quartz before I made a final decision to put marble in a busy kitchen with two young boys.

      • Stephanie

        I agree with you about looking into quartz. There are many on the market that look like marble, but so much easier to maintain. No sealing required and they won’t stain.

        Love the new house, Marian!

    38. Nancy

      Thanks for showing the dust bunnies and keeping it real, Marian. It will be wonderful to see how you make the place your own.

    39. Tori

      Maple cabinets… I have them as well and I love them. I would also love to paint them white. Every time I muster up enough nerve to do it, I chicken out because I love the wood equally. I figure as soon as I paint them, white cabinets will go out of style. Kinda like tab-topped curtains….I totally messed that one up. ?

    40. Tracie

      I love this house! And I agree that the counters and stove need to go. I have the same granite and want to replace it. But, those maple cabinets–I love them! If I had to choose between white and maple, it would be hard. I love both! However, I’ve lived through 55 Minnesota white winters, and white gets tiresome. My house needs warmth and color when it’s -30 degrees and two feet of snow outside. It’ll be fun to see you make this your home!

    41. Colleen

      I’m right there with you with the gas stove but… I think I would put the microwave on the book shelf at the end of the island instead of inside a closet. That way you don’t need to have a door open to use the microwave. Possibly the book shelf isn’t deep enough for the microwave? And are you leaving your mixer way down there near the floor? My Kitchen Aid mixer is heavy! I wouldn’t want to lift it up each time I need to use it! Just my opinion! It’s all coming together! 🙂

    42. Lenora

      Gotta weigh in on the bacon. Bake at 400 on a grill top pan approx. 20 min. Depending on how many slices of bacon you put on the pan, you can usually put a complete package. You will never fry again.

    43. Robyn Watt

      Hi Marian, I have wanted a Wolf stove since I was in my early 20’s. We had an electric stove in our house and I bothered my husband every day until I got one. Just get an estimate, on how much it would cost to run the gas line, it might not be as expensive as you think. Good luck!

    44. karen

      I hear ya on the counter tops! I’m the same way with mine, I have really nice granite but I hate it and I want white. It seems so wasteful but I hate them. I struggle with trying to like them every day. I would paint those cabinets too. first thing! 🙂 but that’s just me, I HAVE to have white cabinets. Beautiful space and I can’t wait to see all of it evolve.

    45. Brittany Walls

      I’m anxious to hear how you like your shaped kitchen. This is the same layout I’m considering for our investment house. Glad you got safely moved in.

    46. Jennifer

      I know your kitchen will look fabulous! Word of warning on the marble countertops be sure to research finishes. I got my “fantasy” marble countertops when we did our kitchen two years ago and they do not wear well and we are empty-nesters! I was warned by both our contractor and the marble company that they polished finish would scratch and stain but I wanted what I wanted. My grandkids come over and always leave a little love behind in the way of a stain or scratch!

    47. Fran

      Lovely kitchen–cannot wait to see what you do with it! I agree with Sarah about induction ranges. I had my heart set on a gas range when we redid our kitchen because I burned everything on our old glass top electric. Old house issues came up, so I couldn’t get gas to the kitchen. I went with an induction range. Induction cooking changed my life. LOL So happy for you and your big changes, but we will miss you here in PA!

    48. Laura

      You CAN get a witness! Gas is glorious. When we had an apartment in Maine, we had a glasstop range. Awful! Awful! Awful! I guess one can adjust to anything, but if you had already planned to get a gas stove, why would you? We’ve had a Wolf range in our house (that I’m here getting ready to sell) for 10 years and it is wonderful. And you find out how wonderful when you have to cook on an electric range. Some one above mentioned induction and liking that better than gas. You might as well look into that but gas is the choice for chefs and home cooks alike for a reason.

    49. Diane

      What a great start to your new life!
      I installed marble counter tops about 4 years ago – a dream for me. However, I now wish I’d chosen a quartz that came close to a marble look. The marble began etching really soon and now has a couple of chips around the sink.

      I’m going to my big box store and see what they recommend to treat the etching and if they can recommend someone to come and grind/polish out the chips. I still love the look, but would have chosen the durability of quartz if I’d known how quickly they’d age.

    50. Deborah Nisson

      Love all your ideas and totally agree on the gas stove. I’m waiting for my electric stove to die so I can get one. We have to run the gas line too. We have a large propane tank for our generator so it shouldn’t be too hard. I am so glad you are going to paint the cabinets. I lived with that wood color for 20 years and never liked it! I grew up with white cabinets and have them again! I wanted marble when we redid our kitchen but was talked out of it because I was told it was too hard to keep. I went with Silostone quartz and I really love it. Thanks for sharing. It makes my day!

    51. Rita

      Ooo, perfect, I really want marble counter tops, too. Please give us the details on how you decide on thickness and please give some insight on selection and pricing. We have a laminate now so disposal will be a breeze but I don’t know the first thing about buying and having a counter stop installed.

    52. Anne

      Is that a few pieces of Repousse nestled in the drawer with your microplane and spatulas? I love that you use your treasures in your normal day to day. Things that pretty shouldn’t be just for special occasions.

    53. Mae

      Gas stove has my vote! When we remodeled our kitchen years ago, I wanted another gas stove, I’d had in previous home “duel fuels”, gas on top electric in the oven and they were wonderful. However when shopping for a 60″ range, those became pretty spendy. We ended up buying a “Blue Star” it’s all gas, however the oven has convection, I haven’t missed the electric at all. Also Blue Star gives you many color choices without extra cost.

    54. judith

      I am in the gas stove fan club, having cooked on one for years. I recently got a high-end Blue Star gas range, made in the U.S.A., with French doors for the oven – it is incredibly pretty as well as efficient and will easily last me forever. For your counters, I would think twice about marble. You will pay a lot, you will do a lot of maintenance, it will get scratched or stained, and you will feel awful. Please look at quartz, which you can get in light colors. I have had a flecked white quartz countertop in my home for nearly 15 years and love, love, love it. No stains and easy to clean. See if Habitat has a Re store in your area and get them to pick up the old countertops and keep them out of the landfill. You are so fortunate to have had all of those nice church people to help you move in. I’m glad for you and your family.

    55. Amy Duyck

      I have loved following along on your move and love the realness that you show about moving, cleaning, etc! I can’t wait to see what you do with the microwave, ours is on the counter right now and I have been wanting to hide it ever since we moved in 10 months ago!

    56. Mary S

      You are off to a great start. I’ll trade you my kitchen for yours ;0

      Warning here!!! I have marble counters and want to warn you about what a maintennce NIGHTMARE they are!!! And I’m not kidding! I have Danby Marble and they are beautiful – but — they water spot, they will etch if ANYTHING with acid sits on them for more than few seconds. Example, a spilled glass of Crystal Light lemonade left the imprint of the dish rag I used to sop up the liquid. It was a horrible job removing that spot. Marble has to be sealed frequently which is costly and a lot of work. With young boys I would advise you to search for the marble look without the actual product which is what I wish I’d done. Fair warning!!! Stay away from the real product no matter what the sales person tells you! In addition to it being porus, it also chips if you drop something on it like a stemmed glass!! Wish I could do it over again. AND I don’t have kids!!

      • Patricia

        I was wondering about the maintenance of marble too. If I could redo my granite (we inherited it with the house) it would be white granite which has a marble like look. Or quartz that looks like marble. Any chance, Marian of putting in marble just on the island and leaving the rest of it alone?
        Microwaves are not worth the real estate on the counter top for sure. I agree with the opinions above that the radiation and the nutrient loss of food is a concern. My microwave is also a convection oven and that does get used. Also, nothing like microwaving a warm compress in winter!
        Congrats Marion. So much fun to watch this all unfold !

    57. Mary S

      Oh yes…. GAS STOVE for sure! I changed my electric out for gas as well.

    58. Amelia Green

      Amen sister on the gas stove! An electric cook top is just the worst! Professional chefs use gas for many reasons including the speed in which it heats up, easy control of heat, can use with various types of cookware, etc…

    59. Susan

      When we moved into our new, old house we painted the cabinets also. But my husband didn’t want to replace ” perfectly good granite countertops) ugh ?… I hate them. But he did put our microwave in the pantry. He put the outlet in himself, he’s very smart… ?Anyway your house is going to be amazing! Can’t wait to see all the fun projects you’ll do.

    60. Gilda Stigliano

      I have the same fridge…..The kitchen will get it’s own vibe , like your old one did, over time..

    61. Nan, Odessa, DE

      Go for the GAS and while you are at it, hook up a nice gas grill direct. One of the best home improvements we ever made. With natural gas and the connection you will never run out of gas in the middle of grilling again.
      Love ours for Delaware summers! The scale is beautiful on the island. Please do a comparison on your marble for us. I like it but could NEVER afford it! What are the down sides to marble? Waiting to see your additions to the kitchen.

    62. Nancy

      NOTHING cooks like gas!!! LOVE IT!

    63. Miep

      I truly love everything you do, so verry exited overhere to see what your house will look like in the future. We cook on induction here and I would never change it, it works with the same speed as gaz and cleans in a split second. Only contra is that you cannot cook in copper pots on it. I had to buy all new pots and pans too. But every woman needs the stove she wants. ?. Marble coutertops sounds great. Looking forward to read all of your future posts and wishing you and your family a happy home filled with love.

    64. Teri

      Gas stove or I’m not living there. I have a terrible time cooking on my parents electric stove, dread it. Countertops look like typical, inexpensive builder grade. Marble will go much nicer with your painted cabinets. Raise your hand if you think she’s going to paint the cabinets blue!

    65. Vickie

      Seven years ago we replaced an electric stove with a GE Profile that’s gas top and electric oven. I love it, love it, love it. However, my daughter just replaced an electric cook top with an induction and really loves it, too. Your home is beautiful! Wish you could send me your granite when you replace it – ha, ha!

    66. PJ

      When we moved into our farmhouse, I painted from the inside out, painting all the insides of cabinets first. When removing a shelf in the upper cupboard next to my stove, alas, there was one small bowl still on it that I had missed. It came crashing down on the glass top of my stove and broke it. After lots of internet searching, my handy hubby found a replacement part and was able to fix it. Now I have only lightweight items in those cupboards (boxed cereals, plastic containers, etc.).

      My advice on microwave placement is to keep it low. I burned myself more than once while taking things out of a microwave that was at eye level.

      By the way, I love the maple cabinets. May I be so bold as to suggest you live with them a while?

    67. Rebecca

      As a fellow cook, you definitely have a witness here to the “GIVE ME A GAS RANGE” testament!! In fact, I would also urge you to buy the largest and best gas range you can possibly afford. It really DOES make a difference. As any carpenter will tell you, you’re only as good as your tools!! In addition, the better the range, the longer the lifespan and it actually adds value to your house when it comes time to sell. I got my dream range last year and I must tell you, it’s better than a diamond bracelet or a new car!!!! 🙂 One other hint…. make sure to get a really good hood/ventilator for over your range. The other great thing about gas cooking is that you can get a higher heat. But, with that heat comes additional smoke. The microwave/vents don’t really have the power that a stand along unit does…. and besides, they don’t look nearly as awesome!!! Congrats on the new house and best wishes from Central Carolina!!

    68. Crystal

      We are living parallel lives at the moment right down to a major relocation (from Texas to Connecticut) to the bidding on the house that we thought we would never get (multiple bids) and did! When the realtor, a friend of mine called and said it was ours I said, “would you hold on for a minute” and I covered the phone and screamed!! So I read your recent blogs with much curiosity and always with a big smile. As always thank you for sharing and YES to gas stoves…I will be doing the same. Wishing you much love, peace and happiness in your new space. I’ve been on a hiatus from blogging…trying to figure out the best format etc…but I have so much to talk about (my husband will attest to that!)!

    69. Judy

      I agree with you about stovetop cooking with gas; however, for baking electric is best at holding a consistent temperature. So we went with a duel fuel range. I love it.

      After looking at your pictures of the countertop they look almost exactly like ours which are quartz. Quartz is easy to maintain, doesn’t stain and needs no special care unlike marble and granite. I’ve started seeing quartz countertops that look like marble on the home shows on TV. With kids you might want to check out that option.

      I’m glad you didn’t vacuum before taking the pictures and for showing “the rest of the story”. This lets us mere mortals know that bloggers homes aren’t always picture ready! I’ve enjoyed reading about your moving adventures. May God bless you and you family as you start a new life.

    70. Karen K from Buffalo

      May I make a suggestion regarding the microwave? I had a gas stove & when I needed a new microwave, we purchased an over the range type. It had the fan for ventilation at the bottom & sides, & doesn’t take up that precious real estate on the counters. And I have a similar refrigerator & you are going to love the freezer part as it holds so much food! God bless your new kitchen, dust bunnies & all!!

    71. Suzy

      I am looking forward to seeing how you make this house your home. The kitchen will look beautiful with your touch.
      I got a warm fuzzy when you were telling how the church came to help with the unpacking of the truck.

    72. Mary Beth Sinnott

      I L?VE your house! I think the cabinets will be gorgeous in white. I would totally splurge on the apron style sink, you won’t be sorry. I would also add some bead-board to the side of the cabinet by the dishwasher. I would love to see a few glass cabinet doors and would see if you could add cabinet doors (taking the upper molding off) to the top of the cabinets to bring them up to the ceiling, which would give you more storage and dosplay areas. I also cook my bacon in the oven, it’s so easy! I cook at 360 on a large cookie sheet with about three sheets of foil which makes clean-up a breeze and allows me to make waffles or eggs while it cooks! Can’t wait to see more photos!!!

    73. Martha

      Call me strange, but I love my glass electric cooktop. I had gas in the last two houses and found it harder to control. It was especially the oven, at least get an electric oven. I am sure both gas and electric have their good points. It is all what you are willing to take the time to learn how to use. Lots of people cook on electric an they make good food on it. What I really like is the clean up, easy!

      Are you getting polished or honed marble. My son has honed marble and they cook at home a lot and have small kids who also cook. After 3+ years they don’t look bad at all. Part of the charm of marble is the slight etching and wearing showing it’s real. It has a warmth to it I am not sure you can get with another product. I would think twice about getting polished marble, honed imarble is warmer looking and in my opinion easier to care for. He has a giant gas stove also, and loves it. Just get what you want the first time don’t compromise, it’s too hard to go back and change. Just look at everything and make your own decision. Maybe there are different types/ grades of marble but the horror stories I read in the comments today are not happening at their house. I also have black granite and am considering switching to marble. He is a contractor and did a lot of research before purchasing marble and they have never regretted it.

    74. Jessica | Petal + Ply

      So excited for you! Everything is already looking great. AND, wow! your new church family sounds amazing. What a blessing for you to have such a wonderful welcome and see their serving hearts in action.

    75. Susie

      I was admiring all the work you had done in the kitchen regarding unpacking and putting things away and then you stepped back and gave us the full view! I’ll have to say I had a good laugh! Ha, we’ve all been there and done that.

    76. Deb

      Yay gas! Who has time to stand and keep twisting and turning pans for even cooking? Grew up on gas and so miss it. Apartment living stinks(all electric) lol.

    77. Pam

      I went from induction to gas when we moved. I would take induction over gas any day. Instant on and off like gas, but doesn’t heat up the kitchen or give off fumes and sooo much faster. I hear the Jepardy music playing in my head every time I boil water. LOL. So slow! Oh, and I hate cleaning around all those gas grates!

    78. Colleen

      Testify- gas stoves are the best! If we had electric we would change it. Love your new kitchen and glad you plan to hang your pot rack. What a blessing to have the support of your church members. Looking forward to the rest of your house tour.

    79. Marlene Stephenson

      Speaking as an older person i have had both gas and electric and i will take gas. Love the tour thanks and know even though it’s tiring it is fun too. Looking great.

    80. Heidi

      Plenty of yeses on the gas already so here’s to spoonulas and flat whisks ?

    81. Heidi

      Guess I’ll refrain using emoticons as what posted as not what I selected!

    82. Sue P.

      When you get ready to install a backsplash, if you use tile, I can recommend a product called Mussel Bound instead of thin-set for sticking the tiles to the wall. My husband and I put in our backsplash with it two years ago and it made the job so much easier. It was our first tiling project and it looks beautiful. I wrote about our experience and have pictures on Hometalk.com. If you go to that site and search for Mussel Bound, my post is the only one on there. The product is available at Lowe’s. My post on Hometalk received a lot of questions, which I have answered on the site.

    83. Tolli

      I would love to see some ironstone on the top of your kitchen cabinets! Or a collection of baskets!

    84. Robin Leach

      I am so excited to see your mustardize this house! I know I will learn a lot! I’m so happy for you, Marion. What an incredible blessing to have that crew unpack for you. It sounds like you’re about add some loving people to your family. That’s ALWAYS a blessing!

    85. CAM

      Gas only!
      Moved microwave to laundry room, which is close to kitchen, for the rare occasions I use it.
      Also, I’ve found that I really like bacon cooked in the oven!

      • Shawnetta

        For years I cook it in the oven or microwave. Stove top is so messy and doesn’t give the same just right crisp.

    86. Lori

      Fun to see your move in progress! I know it is terribly tiring but the house looks really nice. We are currently emptying out my mother-in-law’s house. A lot of decisions and emotions! I am with you totally about gas stoves! They are the BEST! Hope you have better success with the electric stove and joy in the unpacking & rearranging! 😉

    87. Rita Loveday

      So much discussion on the range. I would vote for induction, easy clean up, less electricity. Wonder why you did not use LED bulbs to light the kitchen?

    88. Teresa

      Marian,
      I hope you are READING all the first hand comments and warnings from the marble countertop owners!! Please do your research carefully because most of them have said they wish they had gone with quartz that looks like marble. You wont have the all the maintenance issues with quartz that you have with marble.

    89. Shelly

      Hi Marion!

      Can I ask you to share a little more about the new kitchen lightbulbs? I am in the same position as you and I hate my kitchen lighting. It never occurred to me that I could change the bulbs. Are there special can light bulbs or did you use regular daylight bulbs?
      Thanks Marion!

    90. Holly

      ? I can see it already! It will be fabulous!

    91. Andrea

      LOVE Mary Beth’s idea to add glassfront cabinets to the top of your cabs.
      LOVE my similar KitchenAid fridge b/c of huge size and that the water is neatly hidden inside.
      LOVE the little arch on the island shelf, and other MMS type details that lurk!
      LOVE Musselbound tile adhesive which helped me to tile my kitchen w/ Pearl white subway tiles from HD.
      LOVE quart over marble b/c who wants to babysit a counter!
      LOVE this new season in life for you and your sweet family.

    92. Brandon Kimes

      Beautiful kitchen! I am a kitchen and bath designer in Nebraska and I just wanted to give you a heads up for your sink. If you still want a farm sink/apron sink, you can still get one if you are keeping your cabinetry. Kohler has a model called the “Whitehaven” that is designed to install with existing cabinetry. Basically all you have to do is remove the false front panel and trim the top and sides and you’re all set! Just thought I would let you know that you don’t have to give up on your farm sink! Looking forward to the rest of the house reveal!

    93. Sue

      I have a Sharp drawer microwave and it’s fantastic. It’s in my kitchen island and one button opens it. It’s so much easier to put something in the microwave and remove hot food without having to pull it out from up high. You might want to check them out. I also agree on the quartz that looks like marble. Marble stains, scratches and is much softer than quartz. Definitely get the gas stove top–at least 5 burners. You can get a free-standing gas burner top with electric ovens below. Electric ovens are cleaner and more accurate.

    94. Shawnetta

      I have a love hate relationship with gas. I love how it looks and we had ot for the last 15 years. WHen we ustom built this house in December I chose electric flat top because whiel gas cook awesomely, I clean terribly and all those gartes are a pain. I much prefer to squirt on some range cleaner and wipe quickly than the joy of disassembly constanly to clean up over boiled rice and kids cooking attempts. That was all fine in the old house that had a closed off kitchen and a daily spotless stove wasn’t as important, new place, open floorplan so guest see all your junk lol. I am a little disappointed you’re paintng the cabinets as the finish on them looks great. I don’t think they need paint.

    95. Karen

      Your new kitchen is lovely!

      A tip: Bake your bacon. Instructions are on the package. It’s less messy (no popping grease all over your stove top) and cooks evenly. I concur about the gas stove. I won’t cook on anything else. When we have moved over the years, adding a gas line/gas stove is always on my must haves list!

      I love that you get to change the counter tops just because you want what you want. What a gift! It sounds like your new church family is amazing! God has blessed your family immeasurably!!

    96. Rene Day

      So excited to see that you’ve already gotten your kitchen in somewhat working order. It looks great!

      1. Totally agree with the decision to go with gas! As a former Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, I always related my love and admiration of cooking with gas to my students! I shudder to think what food I cooked on electric might be like.
      2. YEEEESS on the marble countertops. Alabama is known for the marble that comes from nearby Sylacauga. My dream is to have marble countertops made from white Sylacauga marble!!

      Looking forward to taking this design/decorating journey with you!

    97. Karen

      Oh, and I also recommend getting a piece of marble and setting it on your counter. Work on and around it for a couple months to see if you still want marble after this test. You have to keep it sealed really well and continue to seal it repeatedly over time or it will stain from even water. And stains from food are almost impossible to remove.

    98. Diane Ruebel

      MMS! Your new community bespeaks the constant and unconditional love that is already bringing stability to you and your family’s life. Thank you for sharing the sacred story.
      When we built our home 13 years ago I chose a gas cook top with an electric oven. The combination is one of the joys of our kitchen. In the meantime, you might like to try a dommed bacon cooker that works like a charm in a microwave.
      It was heartening to scroll through the enthusiastic responses and suggestions of your online community. I’m going to check out the Sharp drawer microwave!
      May you soon exclaim, “home is never sweeter than now” (anonymous).
      Diney on Camano

    99. Paula J Runyan

      Marian, until you can switch out the stove, here is a trick that will solve the bacon issue (other then doing it in the oven). cut the slices in half. its the only way we can make it work on the electric.

    100. Sharon Smith

      Such a beautiful kitchen. How welcoming to have everyone help you out! Looks like you are where you should be! Can’t wait to see more!

    101. Elizabeth

      Oh Marian, your home is beautiful! I can’t wait to see the transformation once you “Miss Mustard Seed” it.
      I have the same fridge by the way, love it. I also would go with gas as soon as you can.
      As for marble, definitely go with honed, not polished. As for wearability, marble has lasted for centuries in Europe and most European kitchens have marble.
      Our house has granite countertops and I so wish the house had crummy Formica that we could rip out. Hubby will never let me rip out perfectly good granite. Ugh. So wish I could have white marble.

      Congratulations on your wonderful new home, new community, and incredible church family. Many blessings to you and yours!

    102. Rachel Di Fonzo

      Beautiful kitchen. I see some people have cautioned against marble counters. I’ve always wanted them but a friend whose husband is a builder has them and warned me off. If you spill pasta sauce or red wine, it stains. Perhaps you can find the granite and quartz that look like marble but are lower maintenance.

    103. Patty

      I LOVE the nape cabinets and wish you would keep them. I think all your ironstone will show off better against the warm wood! I do agree about the lighter countertops. Maybe white beadboard for backsplash. Love all the arches and the mounding at top of cabinets, too.

    104. Ginger Marshall

      Love the idea of Marble and the pot rack. The question I have is, did you take the starched fabric off the wall at your PA house, or did you leave it for the current owners?

    105. Debbie Klausing

      You are probably tired of “bacon” suggestions but here goes. I always cut each bacon strip in half, then snip the sides with kitchen shears. This allows the pieces to cook evenly and stay flat. Once the skillet is hot, I cook it slow and low. I learned this from my grandmother in law, who was the best! I have Electric, but would cook it the same regardless.
      Speaking of new ranges, I need a 40″ range to replace one that cannot be repaired due to parts not available. It was barely 10 yrs.old. Any suggestions from anyone would be great. Seems they are hard to find.
      It’s going to be so fun to watch your new home adventures!

    106. Jennifer Robyn

      Hi Marion,
      I’m enjoying all of your moving posts! Can’t wait to see your ideas.
      1) Gas all the way! 2) I installed honed marble counters in my old house and Loved them. I’m always amazed by people who talk about the sealing and maintenance because don’t you have to clean counters every day anyway ??? I certainly never babied them, I just used a. Cutting board and pot holders for hot pans, Also, if you love patina ( and we know you do) you will love honed marble. It is a natural stone that changes over time. Small nicks and scratches can even be buffed out. Also get some Barkeepers Friend .
      Be prepared to be lectured at the stone yard and made to sign a disclaimer about how “delicate and prone to staining ” marble is. Then they will appeal to your husband about how the ENTIRE kitchen will have to be replaced if a guest sets down a wine glass. Hogwash. It’s stone. This idea that things need to stay pristine is North American. This is a natural material used all over Europe for literally hundreds of years. You will not regret it.

      • Marian Parsons

        That’s how I feel! Many old buildings used marble for floors, walls, counters, etc. I know it will earn some imperfections over time, but that’s one thing I love about it.

        • Alicia from California

          I agree. Stains and marks show they’ve been used and make a home “homey”.

    107. Jeanie

      wow I have been cooking for 50 yrs and have never baked bacon in the oven but you all have convinced me it won’t splatter in my new electric oven..lol it takes getting used to cooking with electric but I mastered it. I love your kitchen just the way it is and also the granite but it will be beautiful when you put your own stamp on in and I look forward to seeing it!!!

      • Paula J Runyan

        It was the only way we did it in the commercial kitchens we worked in. I could make bacon for 200 people in 15 minutes. Perfect texture every time.

    108. Linds

      I have an induction range. Cooks better than gas. The only draw back is the cookware needs to be magnetic. I will always have induction if possible. I have cook on lots of ranges.

    109. Charry

      Marian
      I totally agree with the stove and marble.
      I have a 36 inch gas wolf range and I love it. I also have Branco vexation marble. It is beautiful white with soft grey , but the etching is horrible. If you do decide on mable get it honed the etching is not so obvious. The look it beautiful.

    110. Nicki

      You should look into IKEA for a sink. I got an apron front double sink there a few years ago for a little over $300 and absolutely love it!

    111. Jacquie

      Oh Marion, I’m so with you in this move. We just signed the papers on our home!! We will be moving to our house between now and October 1st. We lived in Minnesota, mid-Northern for 10 years. I just planted my “Minnesota” hostas at our new home. I’m excited for all it will be. We have to do pretty much a total remodel, but the price was right. We moved back to my husband’s “home town”…the town he graduated from. Population approximately 175! We will be retiring in about a year but plan to be moved in before then. I was fortunate enough to be able to get ALL new appliances and my husband got a new zero turn 54” lawn mower. I’m watching and hoping to get my own blog started as well! BTW, my hubby is a pastor too, so I feel like we have lots in common! Blessings!

    112. Kendra

      We have the same fridge, except I got the White Ice color for our white kitchen. I like having water on inside too, cleaner look. We are waiting for our 36″ Verona range (also white). You may be surprised and find gas line already plumbed behind existing stove. That was the case in our last house built in 1985 that had large electric stove…

    113. Arlene

      Looks lovely already. Will be fun to watch it come to life with your creativity. Bacon in the oven – yes, yes, yes. So easy. One tip though – line your cookie sheet with heavy duty foil. When bacon is done, stick the tray in the fridge to harden the grease, then just lift off the foil and throw it away! Best Pinterest save ever.

    114. Jennifer

      Where did you get your bar stools? I love them!!

    115. mimzy

      this is so exciting!! Can’t wait to see what you do…staying tuned!!!!

    116. Alicia from California

      Oh. How I wish I lived just down the street from you so I could stop by and help out as I get to see first hand your new home, meet your family, and maybe get to be one of your new assistants!

      Well, I am a Kitchen-Aid fan as well: Frig, gas stove (induction oven), and microwave. I inherited my appliances from the young couple I purchased my home from. And my kitchen is short on counter space so the previous owners mounted the microwave above the stove! I’ve grown accustomed to it there and since it has a built-in fan as well as a 3-way light I enjoy it there.

      Like everyone else, I too can hardly wait to see you put your own touches into your Minnesota home and “mustardise” it! I wonder if you’ll be putting up scenic wallpaper in the any of the bathrooms as you did in your Pa. home.

      Thanks for the tip on the light bulbs.

    117. Kelsey

      Your kitchen is beautiful and has so much potential!!! I’d love to know where you got your counter stools. We are redoing our kitchen and I’m looking for similar ones!

    118. JolieAnne

      I saw the bacon you cooked-it does look like it curled so some was still raw. I never fry bacon anymore, I bake it at 375 degrees in a glass pan and it comes out perfect. You can ignore it if you set the timer for about 15-20 minutes-depends on your oven. It is my favorite way to make bacon.
      I had a faulty gas water heater and it burned down our 2 story home that we built in the beginning of our marriage.
      All of our children came home to that house from birth. Yes, we all got out safely-even our Yorkie. We lost so many material things but we went to a nicer home and I was happy that there was no gas appliances in our new home. Our church family helped us get our life back to normal and we are still in the beautiful home we chose after the fire! Your kitchen is wonderful as well .

    119. Maureen

      As if you need another person to say GAS GAS GAS! but I have one caveat. My son is a chef and he said he actually now prefers induction cooking. I can believe him for the accuracy but I think I need the gas for the primitive urge for fire. It’s somehow a comfort thing.

    120. Danielle

      I got to build my dream house with all marble, moved in, moved out due to numerous problems, and now I am back in my former house with the same granite as you. I’m painting my kitchen this week in shades of white, hoping it will look ok until I get my “one day” again!!

    121. Yvetta

      After cooking on an electric stove for all my life, I’m in my 50’s, I went with a gas stove 4 years ago when remodeling my kitchen and I LOVE it!!!! Will never go back. And a bonus when we lose power I can still cook! So excited for you and your family in your new home!

    122. Jenny

      I love your ideas and can’t wait to see the transformation!!!! Also: try cooking your bacon in the oven some time-it evenly cooks the bacon and there is no flipping involved! It changed my breakfast game 🙂

    123. Ej

      Absolutely the only way to go…gas. And my microwave sits in the garage for the rare use it gets. In my last house, I put it ina pantry just like yours.

    124. Cheryl

      Just one more splurge…get the apron front sink! I scoured the internet and found a deal. Marble and apron front. Meant to be.

    125. Elaine

      I love gas stoves and marble counters. Go with your heart and you’ll be happy! I am going
      through a move and renovation and although you are going into a newer house I have
      been avidly following your process and progress. I have been enjoying your blog since my daughter highly recommended it several years ago. Best wishes in your new home
      and location. Can’t wait for your next “chapter”.

    126. Karen L Chaudoin

      I can’t even begin to describe the horrors of an electric range nor the wonders of a gas range. Gas ranges make you a cook whether you have true skills or not except for bacon. I found putting bacon on a baking sheet in a 400 degree oven works magic with bacon. Your kitchen is lovely and filled with conveniences. It will be beautiful!

      • G.R.

        If you like spots all over your countertops, then marble is for you. You’ll have rings where someone set a wet glass or coffee mug and multiple food spots. PERMANENT ones. I have many marble-topped tables (antiques) and they’re ALL full of spots from a century ago. Quartz is the most practical countertop. As for stoves, when I moved into my house, I ripped out the electric cooktop, installed a gas range and put in an electric wall oven. It is the perfect combination (gas top burners, electric oven). I once had to make a batch of English toffee on a friend’s electric range and wound up setting one burner on low and one on medium and switching the cooking pot back and forth, as I couldn’t get the temperature I wanted by turning one single burner up/down, up/down. Response was too slow. I wouldn’t buy a house without a gas range! I don’t eat bacon, but doing it in the oven on a rack is GREAT.

    127. the uncommon pearl

      I’m seeing what you are picturing! It will continue to be lovely. Im with you on the gas range. I love the instant control! I will warn you on the Carrara Marble, though. We put a marble slab counter in our last house master bathroom remodel. It looked dreamy with my white cabinets, dark wood floors and marble 2″ tile under the freestanding tub and the shower floor. We put marble accent tile with white subway on the shower walls. It was so lovely. I miss that bathroom! BUT, the counters were a huge stresser to upkeep. They needed a constant upkeep of cleaning and sealing and even then a glass of water left a ring! I DO LOVE the look so much, but would i do it again? No. Because they are so porous, I can’t imagine the upkeep in an active kitchen with acidic foods and drinks. Just a thought…but you may want to consider putting it just on your island or possibly your butler’s pantry/buffet area (?) At the bottom of your stairs…. making a baking station of sorts. Marble is beautiful and does make my heart skip a beat, but is just so stressful to upkeep. Just some thoughts to ponder. I don’t want to sound negative, but just being realistic….from someone who has lived with it day in and day out.
      What a complete blessing to have so much help! You have instant friends already!

    128. Tracey B

      I’ve loved watching your whole selling, packing, buying and moving process and look forward to seeing your beautiful new home evolve and become “Mustardized”.
      I’m in Australia and although our homes and the way we do things are slightly different here., I wholeheartedly agree with the gas cooktop. We bought our new home at the end of last year and gas cooking was a must. We have a nice big 5 burner range with an electric oven – the want item I missed out on was a walk in pantry – the one we have is ok, but not quite practical, so the interior will be replaced with space maximising pull out units.
      We also have granite benchtops – brown toned and miles of them – I’m dreaming of clean and bright created marble (I think you call it quartz). A marble look and feel, but without the upkeep. That change will have to wait until the multitude of more important (and less costly) tasks are tackled.
      Funnily enough, we bought a large 2 storey home built in 1997. Totally opposite to what we were looking for, but I could see the good bones and great potential to give it a new lease on life as it still has all of the original colors and fittings. We are not rushing into it though – we’ve done some plumbing and electrical work but the more visual stuff is being well planned out before we tackle the changes.

    129. Kim E

      Love the house! I have a tip for the bacon issue. Do you have a Pampered Chef clay baking/cookie sheet. This idea came from Becky Higgins of Project Life. Can’t find the link but anyway, place the bacon on the clay cookie sheet and bake at 375 until it done to your likeness. Drain the grease after removal from the oven. You will never fry it on top of the stove again. Trust me.

    130. MaryLisa Noyes

      The kitchen has great bones but I totally agree, a gas range is the way to go. I chose a Blue Star and purchased it on line from a store on Long Island. They even held it until my contractor was ready for it and shipped it to my tiny island in Wa. For free. They were so supportive and my range is wonderful. I’m happy to share more if you are interested.
      I put my microwave in an old farmhouse cupboard so I told is out of the way. I rarely use it so I didn’t want it on the counter either.
      Cheers to all the members of your church for lending such a wonderful helpful hand to your family!

    131. Meredith

      Congrats on your lovely new home!!
      I also love the look of marble but it stains very easily. You may want to consider a quartz look a like for same look with much easier care. Enjoy your new space!

    132. Karen

      I was going to say the same thing. Make sure you sell that granite or see if it can be used as counter top on the bathrooms or in a craft room in some way. There are people who have tile granite that would love slab so maybe even a neighbor would buy it!!! I can’t wait to see what you do with your kitchen!

    133. Jan

      Great Kitchen. And YES, IT MUST BE A GAS STOVE. The only range I like to cook on. With a griddle, of course.

    134. Deb

      I can totally see that the changes you’re talking about will make the space “you.” A pot rack is a perfect idea! I think our kitchen has this granite. I’m painting our kitchen cabinets, and pulling colors out of the granite for paint. I agree with the commenter above – see if you can sell it. The island has a nice big area that could be re-used by someone. You have such a great community of people helping you there!

    135. Maggie

      I see a small area at the end of your counter just next to the glass door.
      You might be able to get a cabinet to fit there that will hold your KitchenAid mixer.
      I had one in my kitchen in New York and LOVED it!
      It has one door that opens to reveal the mixer sitting on a shelf with a small drawer underneath it.
      The mixer lifts easily on a spring-loaded mechanism – it can be done with one finger! A few supplies can be stored on the drawer underneath.
      Since it lifts up and out, it forms an ‘extra’ space on which to work, that doesn’t take-up counter space at all.
      Your mixer also stays out of sight and clean and dust-free.
      Since you might be painting some/all of your cabinets, it won’t matter if it doesn’t match the rest.
      Ours came from Home Depot by KraftMaid, but I am sure you will find similar products from other suppliers.
      http://www.kraftmaid.com/base-mixer-shelf-bms_0000/
      Thanks for sharing so many things with your readers!

    136. Linda

      We wanted gas until we priced installment. My brother who is a chief prefers electric. I like it now too. Bacon in the oven is great. Cook on top of your stove medium heat in heavy bottom pan. Preference is iron skillet. Cook slow for even heat and less splatter. My tips are at bushandapickle.com/2015/08/06/how-to-make-perfect-bacon/. We are still loving our Washington Borough tomatos for our BLTs.

    137. Marie

      Marian, thanks once again for bringing us along. I have been in what will be my “forever” home now for 28 years. Along the way I had installed hardwoods 20 years ago, changed the countertops, upgraded the lighting, the sink to a double cast iron from worn stainless and splurged on a lovely new faucet. Eighteen months ago I had the kitchen I really wanted put in. I went with custom white painted wood cabinetry, Silestone ‘London Gray’ quartz counters (marble look-alike but care free), basic white subway tile backsplash laid in herringbone pattern and stainless Kitchen-Aid appliances. Also splurged on a farmhouse sink with newer faucet since my beloved 18 year old Kohler could not be reused. In so doing I went from electric range to gas top with electric oven (dual fuel) and learning to cook with gas has been pretty easy. It was scary at first (live flame!!) but I am so glad I did it. Kept the beautiful hardwood floor, my pendant lights from 20 years ago and just pinch myself that I get to live and work in this wonderful kitchen! Also added a custom California type wide slat shutter on the window over the sink. I did lots of reading and research beforehand and had great people to work for me. Sorry this is soooo long but wanted to let you know I second considering quartz over marble. Your blog is my favorite. Best wishes to you and your family in this new adventure. This long time reader will be following along. Marie

    138. Glenda

      Throw the stove out. I had never had a glass top stove until we built 10 years ago , they were the latest style so I went with it. I cook a lot and can a lot. A miserable 8 years of a glass top stove. Two years ago I finally got a Thermador stove and love it. It is one of those things that I will never compromise on again. Every time I use my stove I love it more. Not only does it cook great but it is so easy to clean . The glass top a pain to cook .

    139. Carla from Kansas

      I went with a quartz that looks like marble. No staining/etching that way. Too much maple in that kitchen. With the cabinets and floors the same it’s too much for me. Hope you are planning on painting the cabinets. So nice to have help unpacking and putting together beds etc.

    140. Sheila Irwin

      First of all, congrats on the move Marian! It’s been fun to see peeks on Instagram but I wanted to pop over and see the new spaces!

      The kitchen is lovely, and will be lovelier when you put in your touches! And I agree about a gas range – electric is awful!! I’m an avid cook and only had an electric range once (in our first rental) and could never do it again! I love my beefy Wolfe range I have now! And I think marble will be gorgeous! I too wanted it forever and I ignored all the naysayers (and there are many!) and I LOVE it! Can’t wait to see how it all comes together!

      Sheila
      xo

    141. Rebecca

      When we remodeled our kitchen I went with Black Strype Granite for the surrounding counters and honed Carrara marble for my island (and I have 3 little kids who eat/play/draw at it all the time!). LOVE my marble island but the granite… not so much as it’s chipped around the sink and when a glass falls on it. Not sure how the marble would hold up to that, because I’ve never dropped anything on it… ??

    142. Helen

      Congratulations on the new home!!! I can’t wait to see you put your touches on it and see all your selections!! It is such a different kind of house than your last one. I have a gas stove at our vacation house here in Missouri and I love love it. It is just a cheap Tappan stove that came with the house, but I love it and have always liked cooking with gas. I am getting ready to make a twin bedskirt using your tutorial. I spent all day yesterday using your tutorial to make my four curtain panels to go in my master bedroom. You are so good at making the instructions so clear. Love it. Many blessings to you and your family in your new home!!!

    143. Gavin from across the pond

      Can you have a gas storage tank hidden in the garden ? Our range is dual fuel and would always choose gas ! As somebody else has mentioned – bacon in the oven less mess and less smell filling the house.

    144. Slate Countertops

      Congratulations on the new kitchen!

    145. Stacy

      GAS!!! No doubt! I’m old school hard core and I have tried an induction oven at my Mothers…no way does it compare to gas!!!!

    146. Taylor

      Just a thought, but there are pot racks that have down lighting included on the rack, so you have both lighting and the function of the pot rack. Especially if you are removing the pendants, would be nice to still have a little light. Everything looks just like you have always lived there!

    147. kim

      I put in marble counters after much agony and I absolutely love them! I’m so glad we did. I don’t even have to baby them as much as I was willing to. There has been some etching which is really hard to see but no staining. You will LOVE marble!

    148. Annette

      I’m guessing you already had a white sink but I hated mine! It was beautiful–cast iron Kholer sink–until I started using it. Then it got scratched and gross and never looked clean no matter how often I cleaned it. When we had to replace our countertops I put in an under mount stainless steel sink and love it. :). Yes to bacon in the oven. And no to induction cooking!! It’s basically cooking with emf radiation. :(. Perhaps emfs aren’t harmful…but why take the added risk when we all get plenty from cell phones and our wifi. Why add it to our bodies while cooking too? :). Enjoying the adventures of a new house!!

    149. Mary

      Just a word of advice about your pantry closet. Please don’t overload each shelf because they will collapse.. Speaking from experience. lol

    150. Holly

      I have honed Carrara marble on my kitchen island, master bath, and laundry counter. We had them all sealed, and they are beautiful-install what you love! I’ve never had a stain, ever, even after a million spills, but pickle juice (vinegar) and tomato juice do leave marks where they etch/eat into it. I even have a Lego-shaped mark where the pickle juice soaked under a Lego house.. but I wouldn’t change it for anything. It’s gorgeous. And you can only see the marks if the light hits it just right. Do what makes you happy! ❤️

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